Delve into the heart of Middle Eastern cuisine with this exquisite Fesenjan Iraqi Style (Pomegranate Walnut Stew). Rich, tangy, and nutty, this dish brings together the deep flavors of pomegranate and walnuts, creating a stew that’s both luxurious and comforting. Perfect for a special family dinner or to impress guests, Fesenjan is a celebration of tradition and taste.
Preparation and Cooking Times
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
Servings and Serving Size
- Servings: 6
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 250 grams)
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fat: 30g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 12g
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (680g) chicken thighs, bone-in and skinless
- 2 cups (240g) walnuts, finely ground
- 2 cups (480ml) pomegranate molasses
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil
- 2 cups (480ml) chicken broth
- 1 tsp (5g) ground cinnamon
- 1/2 tsp (2.5g) ground turmeric
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh pomegranate seeds and chopped parsley for garnish
Method of Preparation
- Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken thighs on all sides. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the chopped onions and sauté until golden brown.
- Add the ground walnuts to the pot and stir continuously for about 5 minutes until they release their oils and darken slightly.
- Pour in the pomegranate molasses and chicken broth. Stir well to combine.
- Add the ground cinnamon and turmeric. Mix thoroughly.
- Return the browned chicken thighs to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for about 1.5 hours. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Once the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened, adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve the Fesenjan hot, garnished with fresh pomegranate seeds and chopped parsley.
Tips for Culinary Success
- Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality pomegranate molasses for the best flavor.
- Patience: Slow cooking is essential for the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Balance: Taste the stew before serving and adjust the sweetness or tanginess with more pomegranate molasses or a bit of sugar if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Can I use boneless chicken? Yes, but bone-in chicken adds more depth of flavor.
- What can I substitute for pomegranate molasses? A mix of pomegranate juice and a bit of honey can be used, but it might alter the flavor slightly.
- Can this stew be frozen? Yes, it freezes well. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Embrace the rich tapestry of Middle Eastern flavors with Fesenjan Iraqi Style. This pomegranate walnut stew is a perfect blend of tanginess and nuttiness, offering a truly unforgettable dining experience. Gather your loved ones and let the exotic flavors of Fesenjan transport you to the heart of Iraqi culinary tradition.